Aiden Miller, who missed the first six months of the 2026 season with a recurring back issue, returned just in time to celebrate an Eastern League championship with the Reading Fightin Phils. In the championship-clinching game, Miller ripped an RBI double and scored three runs. That success has continued on to the Arizona Fall League, and Miller has gotten off to a scorching start for the Surprise Saguaros.
Aidan Miller is off to a HOT START in the Arizona Fall League so far 🍿
— Milb Central (@milb_central) October 10, 2026
4 G | .500/.700/.833 | 6 H | 3 1B | 2 2B
1 3B | 2 R | 2 RBI | 4 SO | 7 BB | 1 SB
The infielder is raking after missing most of the year due to a back injury. pic.twitter.com/r9M5CNeFG6
Through four games, Miller's 1.553 OPS is the second-best mark in the AFL.
The Philadelphia Phillies can breathe a sigh of relief. Miller is back in game action and looks as healthy as ever, and his standout performance raises questions about whether the 22-year-old is closer to the Major Leagues than they anticipated. If Miller maintains his momentum, the Phillies might be forced to change their offseason plans.
Aidan Miller's emergence could have significant implications on the Phillies' infield plans for 2027 and beyond
The Phillies selected Miller, a shortstop, with the 27th overall pick in the 2023 Draft. Until this season, he had yet to make a professional appearance at another position. However, for the time being, shortstop is occupied in Philadelphia.
Just months after Miller was drafted, Trea Turner signed a $300 million contract to become the Phillies' shortstop for the foreseeable future. Outside of an outlier 2025 season, Turner has struggled defensively, accumulating minus-39 Defensive Runs Saved since 2023, the fewest among qualified MLB position players.
When asked whether he'd be willing to switch positions if asked by the organization, Turner said, "We'll see."
If the Phillies are committed to Miller playing shortstop, they'll need to have an uncomfortable conversation with Turner. Moving Turner to the outfield is a distinct possibility, but the $190.9 million he's owed over the next seven seasons presents a much bigger obstacle for the Phillies.
Scouts have projected Miller as a third baseman. The Phillies' Alec Bohm and Edmundo Sosa are free agents this winter, which could open a spot at the hot corner.
Error on Aidan Miller at 3B gives Erie a run.
— Jeff Kerr (@JeffKerrPHL) September 23, 2026
Miller threw across his body and didn't set his feet. Could make argument ball needed to be caught at 1B with 2 outs.
Reading trails 3-2. #Phillies
Miller made his first start at third base during the Double-A playoffs and has since made two more starts there in the AFL. Assuming he's comfortable at the position, it is likely his clearest path to the Opening Day roster. If Miller needs more time to adjust, the Phillies could find a stopgap in free agency or move Bryson Stott to third until Miller is ready to be promoted mid-season.
However, a disappointing playoff series may have put Stott's future in Philadelphia in jeopardy, and Miller's emergence makes Stott even more expendable. The Phillies could trade Stott and re-sign Luis Arraez, whose approach may fit the Phillies' lineup better.
AFL performance isn't necessarily indicative of future success. In 2025, Bryan Rincon finished 3-for-44 in the AFL and had a breakout season that catapulted him into MLB's Top 100 prospects rankings. Nevertheless, the Phillies hope that Miller's hot start suggests he's ready to contribute to the Major League club sooner rather than later.
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